European ministers support new approaches in the area of youth work that are aimed at highlighting and developing the potential of young people. In a raft of conclusions adopted on Monday 21 November during the “Education, Youth, Culture and Sport” Council, Ministers highlighted the digital revolution, youth participation in the elaboration of strategies and training youth workers.
These conclusions are in addition to a resolution from 2010 and conclusions from May 2013 and May 2016 on the same theme.
In the above, ministers indicated that youth work must adapt to the constantly evolving lives and behaviour of young people. They also call on the Commission and Council of the EU to gather data on trends affecting lives of young people and seek innovative approaches together with the young people themselves. They suggest, for example, using games, GPS-based activities, learning badges and online virtual badges that endorse the achievements of learners, as well as conceptual reflections.
Ministers subsequently indicate that the ability youth workers (volunteers and employees) can be improved through education, training, networking events, guidance services and financial support. They are encouraging the Council and Commission to draw up teaching and training models that can facilitate the acquisition of new skills by youth workers, including digital skills.
They also call on the Commission to examine the use of platforms, such as the European Youth Work Convention, for promoting innovative approaches in youth work. (Original version in French by Sophie Petitjean)